China has been increasingly assertive in the South China Sea, claiming much of the disputed waters as its own. This has led to pushback from several Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines, resulting in heightened tensions in the region. The United States has been supporting these nations in their efforts to counter China’s territorial claims, conducting several “freedom of navigation” operations in the South China Sea to challenge China’s claims and assert the right of ships to sail through international waters.
The joint war games between the US and the Philippines are seen as a further demonstration of the two countries’ commitment to maintaining a strong military alliance in the face of China’s increasing assertiveness. It is also expected to enhance the Philippines’ defense capabilities, which are seen as vital to promoting peace and stability in the region.
The joint military exercises between the US and the Philippines, known as “Balikatan,” aim to send a message to China amidst growing tensions over territorial disputes in the South China Sea. The exercises are expected to enhance the Philippines’ defense capabilities, which are crucial to promoting peace and stability in the region. The joint war games are also seen as a demonstration of the strong military alliance between the US and the Philippines in the face of China’s increasing assertiveness.
Share this: